Abydos - The Little Boy's Heavy Mental Shadow Opera About The Inhabitants Of His Dairy
A progressive and theatrical wonder. Seldom has the use of a real orchestra had such an enlarging effect. A stirring and ingenious project.
Bon Jovi - Bounce
OK, I admit it; I have a very soft spot for this band. Bounce was a pleasant surprise, plenty of heavy guitar work, phenomenal refrains and diverse compositions. Lyrics like staying out too late with all of my friends, you found me passed out in the yard again doesn't get any more Rock N' Roll.
Gamma Ray - Majestic
Long awaited release by the German Power Metal legends and it sounds quite solid without impressing. The musicianship is top-notch and there are some cool fast cuts to enjoy.
King Diamond - Abigail II: The Revenge
I have a thing for King's horror stories and excellent music lately; this one is a bit more complicated but still contains lots of great melodic Metal.
Kino - Picture
A fine Progressive Rock release, being weird in a cool way and still very catchy.
Lanfear - Zero Poems
Grabbed this one at Wacken for 5 Euro, which turned out to be a wise choice. I admire their untraditional and extremely progressive approach in creating some very creative and intriguing music, not everything is just as successful but it sure is challenging.
Manowar - Sign Of The Hammer
At some points heavy as hell, but also harmonious and rich.
Paragon - Revenge
It's still hard-hitting Power Metal with lots of crunch and bite, unfortunately short in original and exciting elements.
Rage - Ghosts
I suddenly felt an urge to dust this one off. One of their more experimental albums and most of it works rather well. Bombastic and a well thought out concept.
Royal Hunt - The Mission
Compelling and harmonious music with huge atmospheres. A bit polished but an outstanding album none the less.
Royal Hunt - Paper Blood
Another fantastic record with spellbinding keyboard arrangements, really enjoying this varied collection of songs growing stronger and stronger.
Shaman - Reason
Quite different from the debut, being dark, mysterious and highly interesting.
Symphorce - Godspeed
Sounding promising and very dynamic and tight. Modern Metal with a classic heritage.
Ten - Far Beyond The World
Catchy and solid Hard Rock, I simply love Gary's emotional voice.
Virgin Steele - The House Of Atreus Act I
One of my all-time favourite albums. The drama and emotional scope is one of a kind. The thrilling story sucks you right in while David's piano passages creates the most moving moods.
Virgin Steele - The House Of Atreus Act II
Due to its progressive nature it keeps fascinating, as a whole not quite as close-knit as Act I but it gains immense strength through a range of enchanting epics.
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